Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) refers to a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when stomach acid or, occasionally, bile irritates the food pipe (oesophagus). GERD is more than just occasional heartburn—it is a persistent condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments for GERD can help individuals manage the disease in an effective manner.
Symptoms of GERD
The main sign of GERD is heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that often happens after eating or when lying down. However, the condition can present various other symptoms, including:
- Acid regurgitation: This occurs when stomach acid or food backs up into the throat or mouth, causing a sour or bitter taste.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): A person with GERD may feel like food is stuck in their throat or experience discomfort when swallowing.
- Chest pain: Some individuals may experience pain in the chest, which can be mistaken for a heart attack.
- Chronic cough: GERD can cause irritation in the throat, leading to a persistent cough, especially at night.
- Sore throat or hoarseness: Refluxed acid can irritate the vocal cords, resulting in a sore throat or voice changes.
- Wheezing or asthma-like symptoms: The acid can reach the lungs, triggering respiratory symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath.
While heartburn is common, persistent or frequent symptoms—more than twice a week—can indicate GERD and should not be ignored.
Diagnosis of GERD
To diagnose GERD, the doctor will typically begin by reviewing the patient’s medical history and conducting a physical examination. Based on symptoms, further diagnostic tests may be recommended:
- Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the oesophagus to examine any damage caused by acid reflux, such as inflammation, ulcers, or precancerous changes.
- Ambulatory 24-hour pH monitoring: A small device is placed in the oesophagus to measure acid exposure over a 24-hour period, providing objective evidence of acid reflux.
- Oesophageal manometry: This test measures the rhythm and strength of oesophagal contractions and the function of the lower oesophagal sphincter (LES), the muscle that prevents stomach acid from backing up into the oesophagus.
- Barium swallow X-ray: A special liquid is swallowed while X-rays are taken to identify abnormalities in the oesophagus or stomach.
These tests help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, like peptic ulcers or oesophagal cancer.
Treatment of GERD
Treatment for GERD involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and, in severe cases, surgery.
- Lifestyle changes:
- Dietary adjustments: Avoid foods as well as beverages that trigger acid reflux, such as spicy foods, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, and fatty foods.
- Weight management: Excess weight can pressure the stomach, causing acid to back up into the oesophagus.
- Eating habits: Smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding eating late at night, and waiting at least three hours after eating before lying down can help manage GERD.
- Elevating the head while sleeping: Raising the head of the bed can help prevent nighttime acid reflux.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can weaken the LES and increase acid production, exacerbating GERD.
- Dietary adjustments: Avoid foods as well as beverages that trigger acid reflux, such as spicy foods, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, and fatty foods.
- Medications:
- Antacids: Over-the-counter medications like Tums or Maalox neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief.
- Blockers: These reduce stomach acid production (e.g., ranitidine).
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These drugs block acid production more effectively and help heal the oesophagus.
- Prokinetics: These medications help strengthen the LES and speed up stomach emptying.
- Antacids: Over-the-counter medications like Tums or Maalox neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief.
- Surgery: In cases where lifestyle changes and medicines are ineffective, surgical interventions may be considered. The most common surgery is fundoplication, which tightens the lower oesophagal sphincter to prevent acid reflux.
Conclusion
GERD is a chronic but manageable condition that requires proactive treatment and lifestyle adjustments. If left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis, ulcers, and even oesophagal cancer. By recognizing the symptoms early, seeking a proper diagnosis, and following an appropriate treatment plan, individuals with GERD can lead healthier, more comfortable lives. Reach out to Long Life Speciality Clinic, the best gastroenterologist clinic in Mukundapur, for timely diagnosis and treatment.